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Oftentimes, the bereaved cannot derive meaning from the death of a loved one. Understanding why a loved one has to die is not very easy to accept. A funeral allows people to comprehend the meaning of life and death.

Usually, family members do not exactly know how to go about the different parts of the memorial service. One reason is that most do not have experience in doing it many times. Another reason is that it is not easy to make decisions and arrangements during the time of bereavement. One big help is entrusting the arrangements to a funeral home. This is after making decisions on how to make the memorial service more meaningful.

What makes a funeral meaningful? Is it just the usual generic ceremony that is done traditionally or by the graveside? However touching the service is, it is possible that it will not hold any special meaning to the family members and friends.

There are different parts in a memorial service. The only thing that will provide special significance is by making every part personal for the family and friends.

The usual parts of an interment are:

Songs

Music is a very strong avenue to access the person’s emotions. The songs that will be played can evoke happy or sad emotions. This is important in making a service personal and meaningful. The line-up of music should be songs that have special memories for both the deceased and those left behind.

Speeches and Anecdotes

This is the perfect way to celebrate the life lived by the deceased. The speeches delivered are usually peppered with anecdotes about the one who passed away. Readings are also a strong part of the delivered speech. Sometimes, passages from the Bible or lines from poems are read apart from the speech. Other times, readings are included in the speech.

Viewing / Receptions

During the funeral service, viewings provide the time for people to extend their sympathies and condolences. Visitation allows the family members to have a support system. This will make it easy for them to process their grief and move forward in their lives.

Eulogy / Remembrance

Remembrance of the one who died is usually combined with readings, speeches, and anecdotes. It is the most important, often the final part, of the funeral service. This is the part of the service where the speeches and the readings are put in. Different people who know the deceased well are asked to speak during this time.

Symbols

Symbols are part of the rituals done in memorial services. Rites are very important when words are not enough to express how people feel. Examples of symbols are flowers. People give flowers to express their sympathies. Flowers are also given to express remembrance of the deceased. In other services, the other symbols that hold special meaning would be the Bible or any other religious signs. All symbols to be used in the service should hold meaning to the family, friends, and the mourners. It is not a requirement that only spiritual symbols are used.

Procession

The procession is done to show support for the family. This also gives honor to the dead in public. Another important element of the procession is the music to be played during the procession. There should also be thoughtful planning of the routes to take in going to the cemetery. A short memorial can also be held by the graveside if the family requests for it.

With the memorial service, members of the family and friends are given the chance to say goodbye. This also gives closure to those left behind. After the service, the bereaved find solace in the fact that many people also love the one who died.

Author Bio

Gentry Griffey Chapel is offering memorial Funeral services that can accommodate all kinds of cultures and traditions.